Characteristics of Users and Interfaces

Experience: Users are either experienced or inexperienced so need different types of support to use and navigate around an ICT system.

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Physical Characteristics: Some will be able-bodied and others may have disabilities. Systems will need to be adapted for the disabled people so they can be used effectively. E.g. Braille keyboards for the blind.

Environment of Use: The environment the user is working in will effect the system they operate. E.g. workers in a supermarket will more likely use a concept keyboard.

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Task to be Undertaken: The user will work differently depending on the tasks that are to be undertaken and systems require different things.

Age: The user's age will affect the way they solve a problem. E.g. an older user will be more resistable to change so their system will need to look similar to the current system.

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How Users Interact with ICT Systems - This is the interaction between a user and a computer (human computer interface). The designer must ensure the system doesn't make the user stressed.

Consistency: Mainly in application software where standard features include similar layouts so are easier to learn.

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Help & Support: Has improved. The main methods are context sensitive help, wizards and online help. Also help by help lines, training and documentation.

Clarity: Important particularly in on-screen communication and error messages.

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User Differentiation: Can be based on levels of experience with the use of drop down lists and tool tips, whereas experts will be provided with macros and shortcuts.

Layout & Structure: Aids the user effectiveness by the screen being clear and uncluttered that is structured. Helps the user work logically through the system.

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Other cards in this set

Card 2

Front

Environment of Use: The environment the user is working in will effect the system they operate. E.g. workers in a supermarket will more likely use a concept keyboard.

Back

Physical Characteristics: Some will be able-bodied and others may have disabilities. Systems will need to be adapted for the disabled people so they can be used effectively. E.g. Braille keyboards for the blind.

Card 3

Front

Age: The user's age will affect the way they solve a problem. E.g. an older user will be more resistable to change so their system will need to look similar to the current system.

Back

Card 4

Front

Consistency: Mainly in application software where standard features include similar layouts so are easier to learn.

Back

Card 5

Front

Clarity: Important particularly in on-screen communication and error messages.